Mr Thomas Smyth

Who was Thomas Smyth?

Thomas Smyth was a 26 (twenty-six) year-old Irish third-class passenger aboard the RMS Titanic. Born on January 23, 1886, in Killeen, Clonbrock, Co Galway, Ireland, Smyth was one of the many hopeful immigrants seeking a new life in America. His journey, unfortunately, ended tragically when the Titanic sank on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Background

Family and Upbringing

Thomas Smyth grew up in a Roman Catholic household that was fluent in both Irish and English. His parents were:

• Patrick Smyth (born circa 1835): A farmer
• Mary Galvin (born circa 1855): Passed away on February 24, 1890, at the age of 35 due to cardiac complications

Thomas had four known siblings:

1. Margaret (born November 15, 1877)
2. Bridget (born December 3, 1880)
3. Michael (born October 4, 1882)
4. Anne (born October 2, 1888)

Life in Galway

The Smyth family resided at 4 Killeen, Clonbrock, Galway. Thomas appeared in both the 1901 and 1911 census records:

• 1901 Census: Listed as a 16-year-old farmer’s son
• 1911 Census: Described as an unmarried farmer’s son, the sole child remaining at home

Why did Thomas Smyth decide to leave Ireland?

Thomas Smyth made the decision to join his sisters, Bridget and Margaret, who had previously emigrated to New York. His brother Patrick financed his journey, expecting Thomas to return to Ireland within a few years, wealthier and able to repay the debt.

Titanic Journey

Embarkation and Ticket Details

• Port of Embarkation: Queenstown
• Passenger Class: Third Class
• Ticket Number: 384461
• Fare: £7 15s

Cabin Mates

It is believed that Thomas Smyth shared a cabin with two other men from Galway:

1. Thomas Kilgannon
2. Martin Gallagher

What was Thomas Smyth’s fate during the Titanic disaster?

Tragically, Thomas Smyth did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. His body, if recovered, was never identified. The young Irishman’s life was cut short at the age of 26 (twenty-six) on April 15, 1912, along with many other victims of the Titanic disaster.

Legacy and Impact

Estate Administration

Following his death, Thomas Smyth’s estate, valued at £25, was administered to his father Patrick on March 28, 1913.

Family Aftermath

The fate of Thomas’s father, Patrick Smyth, in the years following the tragedy remains uncertain. However, there are unverified accounts suggesting that Patrick:

• Persevered for many years after his son’s death
• Possibly outlived Thomas by over two decades
• May have lived into his 90s

An Immigrant’s Dream Unfulfilled

Thomas Smyth’s story is a poignant reminder of the many lives affected by the Titanic disaster. Like numerous other passengers, he embarked on a journey filled with hope for a brighter future in America. His tale exemplifies the dreams and aspirations of countless immigrants who sought new opportunities across the Atlantic, only to have their lives tragically altered by one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.